2006 Lexus RX 400h,
the world's first gas/electric hybrid-powered luxury vehicle. The
2006 Lexus RX 400h is a 4-door, 5-passenger luxury sport-utility.
Based on the RX 330, the best-selling SUV in the luxury category,
the Lexus RX 400h delivers greater performance, improved fuel
efficiency and significantly reduces emissions while sacrificing
none of its luxury or utility. It's hybrid engine that achieves
31-mpg in the city and 27-mpg on the highway.

With a combined
system output of approximately 268 horsepower, and more
significantly, 3,500 lb.-ft. of axle torque at launch, the Lexus RX
400h delivers rapid acceleration with unexpected fuel efficiency. At
7.3 seconds, acceleration from zero to 60 mph is better than many
V8-powered competitors.The
Lexus RX 400h's EPA combined fuel economy rating of 29 mpg exceeds
the average for new compact sedans. With a 31 mpg EPA rating in the
city, it also exceeds most V8-equipped luxury SUVs by over 100
percent in everyday city driving.

'The 2006 Lexus RX
400h opens a new era in luxury vehicles, setting a new benchmark for
luxury SUV performance and environmental compatibility,' said Bob
Carter, Lexus group vice president and general manager. 'It's truly
a breakthrough in terms of hybrid technology because, for the first
time, it adds an enhanced performance dimension to the widely known
hybrid advantages of increased fuel economy and low emissions.'

The new Lexus RX 400h
is the premium model in the RX series, adding numerous standard
features that are offered as options on the RX 330. The seamless
power delivery of the hybrid powertrain is another plus for the RX
400h, because it feels even smoother than conventionally powered
vehicles. The RX 400h is rated as a Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle
(SULEV) in California (Tier 2 – Bin 3 in other states), emitting
over 90 percent fewer smog-forming emissions than
conventionally-powered vehicles.

Externally, the Lexus
RX 400h differs in subtle ways from the RX 330. The RX 400h features
a revised grille, a new front fascia with additional air intake,
sporty round foglamps, unique 18-inch alloy wheels and Light
Emitting Diode (LED) tail lamps. Inside, brushed aluminum accents
replace wood trim, and a power meter replaces the tachometer. The
Lexus RX 400h also includes struts with internal rebound springs and
linear control valves and features specific suspension tuning for
sportier handling.

The Lexus RX 400h is
defined as a 'full hybrid,' which means that it is capable of
operating in electric-only or gas engine-only mode as well as a mode
that combines the power of the gas engine and electric motor. In
contrast, other hybrid technologies are not capable of running only
on electrical power, but instead require constant gas engine
operation.

The Lexus RX 400h
uses a 3.3-liter V6 that is based on the engine in the RX 330 but
with modifications to promote smooth integration with the hybrid
system. These include revised calibrations to the Variable Valve
Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) and Electronic Throttle Control
(ETC) systems.

In making the
transition to a hybrid powertrain, the alternator, power steering
pump, water pump and AC compressor are no longer engine belt-driven.
This is because the gas engine often shuts down—a fuel-saving
benefit of the hybrid system—especially when the vehicle is
stopped or driven slowly through traffic. With the exception of the
alternator, which is replaced by motor-generators, all components
are now electrically powered which means notably lower parasitic
losses to the engine and improved fuel consumption.

The hybrid system
uses a 288-volt DC Nickel Metal Hydride (Ni-MH) battery pack that
fits neatly under the rear seat. The battery's power is directed
through a 'boost converter' that efficiently raises voltage to 650V
DC. An inverter changes this to 650V AC, providing its elevated
power to a front-mounted 123-kW electric motor that turns as high as
12,400 rpm.